February 18th, 2026

Tennessee Senate
Cordell Hull Building
425 Rep. John Lewis Way N.
Nashville, TN 37243

In re: The Log Cabin Republicans of Tennessee Oppose HB 1473 / SB 1746

Dear Committee Members,

The Log Cabin Republicans of Tennessee write to you today to formally express our firm opposition to HB 1473 / SB 1746. As conservatives, we believe in limited government, the rule of law, and the protection of individual liberties. While we respect the intentions of the bill's sponsors to safeguard religious freedom, we believe this legislation is fundamentally at odds with core conservative principles and the modern reality of our state.

Our opposition is rooted in three primary concerns:

1. Violation of the Rule of Law and Federal Supremacy

This bill attempts to codify a legal theory that private citizens may simply choose to ignore the Fourteenth Amendment and established U.S. Supreme Court precedent. As the party of law and order, we must emphasize that legal stability is the bedrock of a healthy economy and society. Creating a "dual-reality" where a marriage is legally recognized by the state but legally ignorable by private institutions creates a confusing and chaotic landscape for Tennessee families and businesses alike.

2. Alienating the Future of the Republican Party

While this legislation may appeal to a specific segment of the base, it stands in direct contrast to the values of the next generation of Tennessee conservatives. Data consistently shows that moderate and younger Republicans overwhelmingly support the right of same-sex couples to marry. By advancing legislation that appears to target and marginalize gay citizens, the party risks pushing away the very voters needed to maintain a lasting conservative majority in Tennessee.

3. Strengthening Liberal Critiques

Legislation like HB 1473 provides significant political ammunition to our opponents. It reinforces the narrative that the Republican Party is focused on social exclusion rather than fiscal responsibility, public safety, and economic growth. This bill does not solve a practical problem for Tennesseans; rather, it creates a "state-sanctioned" path for discrimination that harms our party’s brand and our state’s reputation as a welcoming place for business and innovation.

Conclusion

We urge you to consider the long-term health of our party and our state. True conservatism protects the rights of all citizens to live their lives, honor their contracts, and support their families without government-sanctioned interference from third parties. We respectfully ask that you vote NO on HB 1473 / SB 1746.

Respectfully,

The Log Cabin Republicans of Tennessee